Piedra del Fraile
A Secluded Patagonia Adventure
The Piedra del Fraile hike is a beautiful, off-the beaten-path trek located within the Los Glaciares National Park. Known for its tranquil setting and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers, this hike is perfect for those seeking a more peaceful experience away from the crowded trails. The Piedra del Fraile area is privately owned but accessible to hikers and campers for a small fee. It’s an ideal base for further explorations of Paso del Cuadrado or the Pollone Glacier. With dense lenga forests, wide-open valleys, and dramatic mountain views, Piedra del Fraile is a hidden gem in Patagonia. This area, also has the highest density of wildlife in the region, Huemuls ( an extremely endangered species of deer, only 1500 left in the wild) are often seen while hiking on these trails.
Itinerary
Start point
Puente del Río Eléctrico
- The trek begins from Puente del Río Eléctrico, a trailhead located about 17 km from El Chaltén, accessible by car or shuttle. From Puente del Río Eléctrico, the trail leads you through forests and along the Río Eléctrico, a beautiful glacier-fed river. The path is well-marked and follows the river upstream
Distance
8 km (5 miles) one way
- The hike to Piedra del Fraile is 8 km one way, taking approximately 3 to 4 hours to reach the camping area. The round trip, if returning on the same day, will take 6 to 8 hours.
Difficulty
Moderate
- The hike is relatively easy, with a gradual ascent and no major technical challenges. It is suitable for hikers with moderate tness levels.
Trail Highlights
Río Eléctrico Valley
The hike starts with a gentle walk through lenga forests, where you’ll be surrounded by towering trees and the sound of rushing water from the Río Eléctrico. As you continue along the river, you’ll catch glimpses of the snow-capped peaks of the Fitz Roy Massif in the distance.
Glacial Views
The trail gradually opens up into the wide Río Eléctrico Valley, providing stunning views of the surrounding glaciers, including the distant Pollone Lagoon. This section of the hike offers a dramatic contrast between the lush greenery of the valley and the rugged, snow-covered peaks beyond.
Arrival at Piedra del Fraile
After a few hours of easy hiking, you’ll reach the Piedra del Fraile camping area, a tranquil spot nestled in the shadow of the surrounding mountains. This area offers incredible views of the Cerro Fitz Roy range and is a great place to stop for a rest, picnic, or overnight stay. There’s a small refugio (shelter) at Piedra del Fraile, where you can enjoy refreshments (for a fee) or simply relax in the beautiful natural surroundings.
Optional Extensions
For those seeking further adventure, Piedra del Fraile serves as a base for more challenging hikes, including the trek to Paso del Cuadrado, which offers dramatic views of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, or a hike to the Pollone Lagoon for a closer look at the glacial landscape.
Return Journey
If you’re doing a day hike, you’ll retrace your steps back to Puente del Rio Electrico and then return to El Chaltén by car or shuttle. The return journey takes around 3 hours. Alternatively, if you decide to camp overnight at Piedra del Fraile, you can explore more trails the next day.
What to Bring
Layered Clothing
Patagonia’s weather is unpredictable, so dressing in layers is essential. Bring a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating layer (like a eece), and a waterproof, windproof outer layer.
Sturdy Hiking Boots
Comfortable, waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support are key for navigating the rocky and uneven trails around El Chaltén.
Water & Snacks
Carry at least 1.5-2 liters of water and some high-energy snacks like nuts, dried fruit, or energy bars to stay hydrated and fueled during your hike.
Sun Protection
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun, even on cloudy days. The UV rays can be strong at higher altitudes.
Trekking Poles (optional if only going to the refugio)
Trekking poles can help with balance on steep ascents and descents, especially on trails like Laguna de los Tres.
Camera or Smartphone
The landscapes around El Chaltén are stunning, so having a camera or phone handy to capture the beauty is a must!
Why Hike Piedra del Fraile with Connect Patagonia?
At Connect Patagonia, we offer guided hikes to Piedra del Fraile for those seeking a quieter, more intimate experience of Patagonia. Our knowledgeable guides will enrich your trek by sharing the history, geology, and ecology of the area, ensuring you fully appreciate the beauty and uniqueness of this hidden gem. Whether you’re visiting for a day or planning an overnight adventure, we’ll ensure your experience is unforgettable.
Pro tips
Ideal for Camping
Combine with Other Hikes
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider extending your trip with a hike to Paso del Cuadrado or Pollone Glacier, both offering more challenging routes with spectacular rewards.
Best Time to Visit:
The hike can be done yearb round, but the best time to visit is from October to April when the weather is milder, and the trails are more accessible.
Hire a photographer
Contracting a professional photographer for your hike is an incredible way to elevate your experience. Not only will they capture the stunning landscapes and personal moments that dene your journey, but their expertise in lighting, composition, and creative perspectives ensures your photos are far beyond ordinary. By handling the photography, they allow you to fully immerse yourself in the hike without the worry of getting the perfect shot, leaving you with high-quality, professionally edited images that will become lasting memories.
